Key stats: Martin started 35 games in his three seasons at USC. Originally working as a guard, he moved to center last season, quickly establishing himself as one of the nation's top prospects at the position. He's rated as the No. 1 center by Mike Mayock, Mel Kiper Jr. and Scouts Inc.

How he fits: The Lions are bringing back veteran center Dominic Raiola for a 14th season, but at 35 years old, it's important for the team to establish a succession plan.

While Detroit already has one option on the roster in Rodney Austin, Martin possess a better pedigree, successfully playing the center position at a top university instead of trying to make the transition as a pro.

Martin isn't limited to playing one spot. He would provide the Lions with a talented backup at all three interior positions, in case Rob Sims or Larry Warford were to suffer an injury.

The downside with Martin is he's coming off a dislocated knee cap and high ankle sprain that kept him from playing in the Trojans' bowl game.

Quotable: "I wouldn't say it would be disappointing. It would be a great learning experience and an opportunity for me to soak up the offense and really assimilate into the team and get to know the coaching staff and things like that." -- Martin on sitting behind a veteran as a rookie.